Course Lab: Lessons from Successful Online Course Creators

Team’s Pick: Revenge of the Nerd (Steve Kamb)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.The Mirasee FM podcast team chooses their favorite episode of 2024 to close out the year. In this pick, Steve Kamb shares how — from humble and geeky beginnings — he built Nerd Fitness into an online empire of learning for tens of thousands of students. His insights include the importance of community, having accountability, and avoiding the trap of perfection.Steve Kamb founded NerdFitness.com in 2009 to help average folks, nerds, and misfits level up their lives.In this episode, Danny, Abe, and Steve discuss:How Nerd Fitness started and evolved to become hugely popularThe integration of the site’s content and coursesShifting from online courses to building a larger communityThe challenges of implementing accountabilityNot waiting for perfection before you launch your course“I'm just a huge dork who happens to love helping people not make all the mistakes I did.” — Steve KambSteve Kamb is the nerd who founded NerdFitness.com in 2009 to help average folks, nerds, and misfits level up their lives. He started the site to help people NOT make the same mistakes he made when he started his own journey.Since then, he has bootstrapped Nerd Fitness and transformed it from a one-man blog into a passionate "rebellion" of 5 million annual visitors, 150,000 dedicated subscribers, and a full-time team of 25 humans. The site is best known for Nerd Fitness Coaching, its online program that has coached more than 10,000 one-on-one clients over the past five years. The site also boasts the most supportive and welcoming online community in the known universe.Steve is also the author of Level Up Your Life, a book about turning life into a video game to reach your goals, and he has guest lectured at Google, Facebook, and Vanderbilt University. He lives in Nashville, Tennessee.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuSteve’s website: NerdFitness.comSteve’s Instagram: Instagram.com/stevekambSteve’s Twitter (X): Twitter.com/stevekambCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Cynthia LambAssembled by: Fatima FojasExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioAudio Post Production: Post Office SoundMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Revenge of the Nerd (Steve Kamb)

The Transformadox Method: Simplifying Business Growth (Leslie Sim)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Discover the importance of finding passion and purpose in aiding small-medium businesses with cost-effective strategies. Leslie Sim introduces “crisortunity” (crisis opportunity) and emphasizes aligning activities with core competencies, the benefits of partnerships, and diverse revenue streams.Leslie Sim is a visionary executive, coach, and co-creator of the Transformadox Methodology.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Leslie discuss:Finding purpose and passion for business ownersListening to target audience needs“Crisortunity”: turning crises into opportunitiesDeciding between being a specialist or generalistAligning business activities with core competenciesBuilding partnerships with referral partnersFree discovery and coaching callsCertification programs for business expansionAdapting programs for certification and licensingExploring pilot programs and expansion strategies“We have a term inside our methodology. We call it a ‘crisortunity’. A ‘crisortunity’ is taking a crisis and flipping it into an opportunity.” — Leslie SimGuest Bio:Leslie Sim is a visionary executive and co-creator of the Transformadox Methodology, whose career has been devoted to helping individuals and organizations unlock growth and achieve transformative results. With expertise in personal development and business transformation, she offers a range of services, including business and IT consulting, customized training, and leadership coaching. Leslie's approach empowers organizations through operational efficiencies, strategic planning, and innovation while fostering high-performing teams through servant leadership and systems thinking.For individuals, Leslie provides personalized coaching and peer masterclass development courses, focusing on productivity, leadership, and personal growth. Her flagship Transformadox program combines assessment, strategic planning, and practical training to drive measurable results. Over the years, Leslie has interacted with and been mentored by thought leaders such as Bill Gates, Deepak Chopra, and Jean Houston, while her experience advising public and private sector leaders speaks to her forward-thinking approach that challenges the status quo and emphasizes efficiency and client experience​.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuLeslie’s website: Out of the Box CIOCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer and editor: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Transformadox Method: Simplifying Business Growth (Leslie Sim) coming soon.

Revolutionizing Online Learning: Crafting Impactful Courses (Quinn Simpson)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Explore transforming education through coaching with Quinn Simpson. Sharing her journey in pioneering online courses at scale, Quinn offers insights on learner-centered design, the importance of emotional connection, and the balance between personal growth and professional development.Quinn Simpson is one of the co-founders of Graydin and a certified Co-active Coach and NLP Coach Practitioner.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Quinn discuss:Quinn’s background and journey into online course creationGraydin and its mission to support students and educatorsDifferent formats of learning offered by Graydin: live in-person, live online, and self-paced coursesThe process of transitioning from in-person to online learning during the pandemicMarketing and reaching different audiences, including individual teachers and organizational leadersScholarship and pricing strategies for scaling and accessibilityDiscussion on creating engaging and effective online learning experiencesThe importance of a learner-centered and outcome-based perspective in course designDifferences and alignment between curriculum building and coaching“One of the biggest lessons we've learned about helping people learn well online is you want them to feel connected to the work, you want them to be saying yes and wanting to do it.” – Quinn SimpsonGuest Bio:Quinn Simpson is one of the co-founders of Graydin, an organization working to revolutionize the ways we support, empower, and connect with our next generations so they can thrive at school and at home. Together with more than 300 schools and universities worldwide, Graydin has been at the forefront of the coaching movement in education since 2011.Quinn has 18 years of experience in coaching, teacher-training, and learning content creation for teachers, students, and parents. She is a certified Co-active Coach and NLP Coach Practitioner, and at the age of 24, she co-founded a small charity called Akosia that operated for 10 years using coaching as a facilitation technique in filmmaking projects for underprivileged children and women. With a deep passion to break down the silos within education, Quinn has recently founded Gedi Village Foundation. As the acting chair, she aims to position Toronto as a hub for world-class education by establishing a cutting-edge K-8 school, a professional development center for educators and parents, as well as a philanthropic arm that promotes research and innovation in social-emotional learning (SEL). Living in the west end of Toronto with her family, she enjoys walking through High Park and showing her sons Theo and Bowie how coaching skills are for everyone.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuQuinn’s website: Graydin.comCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Revolutionizing Online Learning: Crafting Impactful Courses (Quinn Simpson) coming soon.

Expanding a Global Mermaid Brand Online (Marielle Chartier Henault)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Discover how AquaMermaid transformed into a thriving mermaid swimming school through innovative online courses and unique business strategies. Marielle Chartier Henault shares her insights on the importance of staying flexible, niche marketing, and blending your passion with entrepreneurship.Marielle Chartier Henault is the visionary founder of Aquamermaid, a global leader in mermaid and aquatic entertainment and an expert in mermaid tail costumes and underwater stunts for movies.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Marielle discuss:Marielle's journey and inspiration for starting a mermaid swimming schoolThe transition from in-person classes to online courses due to geographical limitations and COVID-19Details about the two types of online courses offered by AquaMermaidChallenges and strategies for teaching a physical skill like mermaiding onlineFeedback and community engagement in the online course settingsPromotion and marketing strategies for niche coursesThe business model, focusing on booking mermaid performers and its integration with the trainingAdvice for other course creators, including conducting pilot versions and gathering feedbackThe importance of finding and engaging with niche communities for client acquisition“Then I decided maybe I make a digital course. That way I can reach more people, especially with a niche training like this.” — Marielle Chartier HenaultGuest Bio:Marielle Chartier Henault is the visionary founder of Aquamermaid, a global leader in mermaid and aquatic entertainment. Renowned as an expert in mermaid tail costumes and underwater stunts for movies, Marielle has trained thousands of mermaid enthusiasts and professionals around the world. Her company specializes in delivering magical mermaid performances for a variety of events, including kids’ parties, real estate showings, and pool parties.Under Marielle’s leadership, Aquamermaid has set the highest industry standards, offering top-tier entertainment services and lessons. Her innovative training methods empower both aspiring and professional mermaids to master the art of underwater performance. Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, Marielle champions water safety, body positivity, and creative self-expression through aquatic arts. Her expertise and influence continue to shape the future of mermaid entertainment on a global scale.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuMarielle’s website: AquaMermaidMarielle’s Instagram account: @aquamermaidschoolMarielle’s TikTok account: @mermaid.marielleAquaMermaid’s YouTube Channel: AquaMermaidCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Expanding a Global Mermaid Brand Online (Marielle Chartier Henault).

Transform Course Success Without Launches (Ross O'Lochlainn)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Success is built on lasting relationships and adaptive strategies. Using his new year-long course program as an example, Ross O'Lochlainn delves into client retention, personalized coaching, and sustainable business growth, emphasizing the power of iterative course creation and long-term engagement.Ross O’Lochlainn is the Founder and CEO of Conversion Engineering and author of Open Every Day.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Ross discuss:Ross's program and its structureLong-term client engagement and retention philosophy in coaching programsThe importance of creating outcomes and personalized interactions over contentKey insights for course creators focusing on achievable outcomesCo-creating and iterating educational content based on client needsThe distinction between online courses and extended programs"Done with you" models that integrate teaching, coaching, and consultingEffective uses of piloting and early feedback in course creationChallenges and strategies for maintaining client motivation and engagement“It's far more effective if you have the conversation with individuals and you say 'what's your one problem?'...Let's build your lead gen funnel.” — Ross O'LochlainnGuest bio:Ross O’Lochlainn is the Founder and CEO of Conversion Engineering and author of Open Every Day. He's a former Mechanical and Civil Engineer turned online sales expert. His specialty is helping established experts and coaches get more students and grow their businesses without relying on an endless stream of manipulative launch campaigns. He’s best known for developing a proprietary system (the “Open Every Day” system) that helps experts and coaches sell without the launch model. His new year-long program is called “The Chamber.”Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuRoss’s website: Conversion EngineeringHis book: Open Every DayHis previous episode on Making It: On the Level (Ross O’Lochlainn)His previous episode on Blowing Up: Open Every Day (Ross O’Lochlainn)Giveaway for listeners: Client Studio CourseCoupon Code: MRSENote: The coupon will only apply to the regular price version of the program, not the VIP option.Checkout Page: Join Client Studio. Mirasee and Mirasee FM have no affiliate relationship to this courseCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer and editor: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Transform Course Success Without Launches (Ross O'Lochlainn) coming soon.